Used 1998 Chevrolet Blazer Consumer Reviews
Blazer works
Overall satisfied with the package. Does well towing a ski boat and running through the snow. Although the turning radius needs to be shortened. I have had to get the main computer replaced on 3 different occasions though. I think most of it had to do with the MTBE in the Ca gas. The MTBE also destroyed my fuel injectors. All was under warrenty at no charge. Chevy sent a notice out warning consumers of the MTBE within 6 months of purchase. I am glad I kept that letter!
Fun SUV
I bought my 1998 Blazer with only 56,000 miles exatcly one year ago (March 2003) and I have had no problems. The back seat is kind of uncomfortable though.
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $4,999121 mi away
- LS 4dr SUVMSRP: $3,995300 mi away
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $9,750853 mi away
98 Blazer a mixed bag
Basically, the Blazer is a good car. For the most part reliable. One bad alternator took out the battery and self destructed at about 48K miles over warrantee in time, I ate $800 repair while away from home. At 68K the water pump went, in a heart beat engine over heated and froze before we could get the car off the highway. Melt down to the tune of $3400. When somethings goes, it goes suddenly without warning and it is very expensive. Repairs have been avg about $600 yr. For a US car that might be typical, but 6 1/2 years ownership I think its bad after the warrantee ran out. Economically not an experiece I want to repeat.
Money Pit
Bought w/45K, average 10K per year. Awful mileage, constant laying out money. Needed FWD bearings right after buying it. Needed brakes. Now, it's a money pit - both seat levers broke (white metal), needs e-brake, fuel injectors leak, 4WD Hi won't engage, leaks antifreeze (manifold gasket)
LoveMYBlazer
I bought this car from a dealer with 10,000 miles on it. I never had a problem until I had to have the transmission rebuilt at 87,000 miles. But I had towed some rather heavy loads, and it never left me stranded just started shifting funny. I then replaced the alternator at about 102,000 miles and had a tune-up done at the same time. It now has 112,000 and is still going strong. I love this vehicle, but will need to sell it because I got married and my husband has a farm and we need a heavy duty pickup.
Definitely NOTa Ford
Out of all of the SUV'S available, I believe the Blazer is best value for your money. I have had the opportunity to drive or ride in most that are available and the Blazer seems to be most comfortable. A few friends (Ford Owners- Sorry 'bout that) have commented on the comfort and power of my Blazer when pulling the boat or trailer. They were a bit impressed as they were comparing their experiences with their Fords and Toyotas.
Not so blazin'
I`ve owned my Blazer for two years,had nothing but problems the first year and a half. The following has been fixed or replaced, 2 universal joints, idler arm, 2 lower ball joints, alternator, no heat in the dead of winter, CD player, front speaker, pass.side recliner lever, ABS is junk, 4wd works when it wants to.
1998 4wd Blazer
I keep thinking just one more repair and it will last me awhile. Door hinges replaced, oil lines replaced, intake manifold gaskets replaced , cat replaced, air cond replaced, blinker switch replaced, O2 sensor bad now the air conditioner is acting up again. Besides that, a decent auto, ha ha, Thinking of getting a full size. Gas mileage for the Blazer is the same as a full size truck these days. The newer 5.3 v-8's are getting close to 19 mpg on the highway, my Blazer is only 18 at best. I might as well have the room and power if the gas mileage is going to stink.
Needs Some Work
Everyone knows that SUV's don't get the best gas mileage, but I expected to get a little better being I got a 2dr V6. I average about 14 to 15 mpg. Everything wears out really quick. The rear exterior tire carrier has to be lifted up about an inch or so to be latched. If your a home mechanic, you'll have fun getting the oil filter off. I'm upgrading to a brand new Explorer next week. I'll try another American made one more time.
Nice looking cool vehicle when it runs
Best thing about this vehicle is the cup holder, and it's too small. I've had nothing but problems with the suspension, alignment, and the computerized engine controlls. I had a perfectly good Ford Ranger pickup with 2WD, but wanted something with 4WD. I traded "up" to a newer and better vehicle??? Yeah, right. The Chevy dealer has no problem charging money to fix it, but the only part of the transaction that gets completed is me paying - no fixing involved.